proper handling of powdered flux for sudarc

[eyec]

the subject came up the other day. one person was saying they had to heat the flux before use and use while warm. another was saying they did not. one of the guys said according to Code it has to be. the comeback was, why, it has an ambient temperature preheat and the hopper is not heated. the manufacturer's bag only mentioned "baking" not the need to heat it prior to use; it could be used straight from the bag.

i am familiar with coated electrodes but have never run across this process, so can anyone shed some light on this for me.

tia

Steven C
Senior Member
ThirdPartyInspections.com

 

[HgTX]

What code are you welding to? It is likely that the requirements are written in that code.

Hg


Eng-Tips policies: faq731-376

 

[gtaw]

Bonded fluxes tend to be hygroscopic, similar to the low hydrogen coated electrodes.

Fused fluxes can pick up surface moisture.

In either case, if the base metal is crack sensitive, you will want you flux to be dry and free of moisture.

Consult the manufacturer for their recommendations for proper flux storage.

Best regards - Al

 

[eyec]

they were using the subarc to weld a section VIII vessel component made of 316 or 304ss not exactly sure as i was not involved in the process.

just trying to educate myself on something new to me.

 

[HgTX]

I don't have access to the ASME code, but look for a section on storage and condition of consumables. If you have a guy saying it's required by code, get him to show you that section.

Hg

Eng-Tips policies: faq731-376